Judge Judy's New Court Show 'Hot Bench' Launching Fall 2014

The syndicated effort produced by the famous judge for CBS Television Distribution has sold to stations in 75 percent of the country.

Get ready for another syndicated court show. Judge Judy Sheindlin, the woman behind syndicated TV's biggest hit, will see her new series Hot Bench debut in fall in 2014.

Sheindlin created the series, which puts a twist on the court genre by having cases argued before a three-person panel: Judge Patricia DiMango and attorneys Tanya Acker and Larry Bakman.

"Judy Sheindlin has been a very important part of the CBS family for many years, and everyone at our company is excited to launch this new show and bring Judy's creative vision to the air," said CBS Global Distribution Group president and CEO Armando Nuñez. "Court has traditionally been a strong performer for stations, and we're sure this unique take on the genre will be a great addition to the lineups of our station partners."

Hot Bench has already sold in 75 percent of the country to the following groups: CBS Television Stations, Tribune Broadcasting Company, Sinclair Broadcast Group, Cox Media Group, Meredith Corp., LIN Television Corp., Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Journal Broadcast Group, Gray Television and Cowles Publishing Company. It will air primarily in afternoon and early fringe time periods.

"When my husband Jerry and I were in Ireland recently, we visited the courts and watched a three-judge bench, which I found both fascinating and compelling," said Sheindlin. "I immediately thought what a terrific and unique idea for a television program that brings the court genre to the next level. We have assembled three individuals with extremely varied backgrounds to serve as the judges. They are smart and talented, with terrific instincts and great chemistry, and are sure to create a 'hot bench.' "

The term "hot bench" is used to describe a court where the judge or judges frequently interrupt lawyers' presentations.

Hot Bench is created by Sheindlin and executive produced by Randy Douthit. It will run as a half-hour and be produced and distributed by CBS Television Distribution.